Introduction to Electrical Outlets in Mexico
If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, you probably have a lot of questions about the Mexico outlet type and ask yourself, “Does Mexico have the same outlets as the US?” I’m here with a complete guide to Mexico outlets so you can know exactly what to expect for electric plugs in Mexico!
Packing the correct power adapter for Mexico is key to ensuring you can use all your tech gadgets and electrical tools without damaging them. As someone who travels frequently, I’ve gone through a lot of trial and error figuring out power outlets in Mexico and understanding how voltage in Mexico compares to the US.
Still wondering, “Do you need an adapter in Mexico?” This Mexico power outlet vs. US guide will answer all your questions about the Mexico outlet type you’ll see during your trip.
Mexican Power Outlets: What Outlets Does Mexico Use?
Before diving into my picks for the best electrical adapters Mexico outlets are compatible with, we have to talk about what kind of electrical outlets Mexico uses. Here’s a quick overview of Mexico plugs you can expect to see during your trip.
What Kind of Outlets Are in Mexico? Fun Facts About Mexico Electrical Outlet Types
One of my favorite fun facts about Mexico plug types is they’re the same as what you’ll find throughout Canada and the United States. All three North American countries use Type A and Type B plugs, which are almost the same except for one small but important difference.
Type A plugs are designed with two flat prongs, while Type B has two flat prongs plus a circular pin. This means that while you can use a Type A plug with both kinds of outlets, Type B plugs can only be used with Type B outlets. Type A plugs are more versatile and make it easier to find and use compatible electrical outlets in Mexico.
If you’re traveling from a European country or somewhere else in the world, you’ll likely need a power adapter for Mexico to use the standard power outlets in Mexico. While many popular tourist towns in Mexico offer Type A and B plugs, more rural areas of the country may use different outlet types, so a universal adapter is helpful to have on hand. Keep reading to learn more about electrical adapters Mexico may require.
Quick Tip: Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.
Best Mexico City Tours: Click here to check out the top Mexico City tours
Best Mexico City Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico City
Best Mexico City Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico City
Frequency and Voltage in Mexico Outlets
Another important factor to consider when planning for the standard type of power outlet in Mexico is frequency and voltage. Fun facts about Mexico power outlets: the standard frequency is 60 Hz, which is the same in Canada and the United States.
As far as voltage in Mexico, the typical range for standard Mexico electrical outlet types is between 110 to 120 volts. This is common among all North American countries, so you shouldn’t have any issues plugging electronics into power outlets in Mexico.
For those traveling from Europe or other areas of the world where the standard voltage is higher (for example, in the 220-volt range) you may need to invest in a voltage converter. If you try to plug something with high voltage into the standard Mexico outlet type, you run the risk of damaging both your belongings and the Mexico wall outlet. A powerful surge can cause items to overheat and overload the electrical system so that it no longer works properly.
Thankfully, there are many voltage converters and surge protectors on the market to keep your laptop, hairdryer, and phone charger safe when using them with Mexico plugs. Voltage converters ensure your devices stay at an appropriate power level so they don’t get damaged when connected to a power outlet in Mexico.
I also suggest packing a surge protector power strip for an extra layer of protection against harmful electrical surges. Power strips not only provide extra plugs for you to use and charge multiple devices at once, but they also prevent voltage spikes that could damage electrical equipment.
Many devices are now also designed with dual voltage capability, which means they work at both higher and lower voltage levels. You can tell if your items are dual voltage by checking their volt range. If the range is somewhere between 100 and 240 volts, you can safely plug them into a Mexico power outlet without overloading the system.
Mexico Plugs: Does Mexico Have Different Outlets Than the US?
What kind of outlets are in Mexico? The same as other North American countries! Those traveling to Mexico from Canada or the United States do not need to bring an adapter to use the standard Mexico plug type. All three use Type A and Type B plugs, so devices will already be compatible with most Mexico electrical outlet types.
If you’re visiting Mexico from somewhere else in the world, like Europe, you’ll likely need a power adapter to use C, E/F, and other plugs with Mexican outlets. Additionally, European electronics tend to have a higher voltage range than the electric plugs in Mexico are designed for. You’ll want to pack a universal adapter, voltage converter, and surge protector so you don’t damage devices when plugging them into Mexican power outlets.
Universal adapters are a great tool to carry while traveling because they let you safely use electronics virtually anywhere in the world. A universal adapter is equipped with different plug types that fit a variety of sockets and outlets, giving your devices plenty of versatility as you travel worldwide.
Universal adapter devices typically cost $10 to $30+. The MINGTONG brand Travel Adapter, which also works as a surge protector, is priced at just $15. Insignia’s All-in-One Travel Adapter, which costs $25, is another popular choice. It lets you use multiple devices at once.
Electrical Adapters Mexico: Adapting Your Devices to Mexico Outlets
Some electronics are designed to be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as ‘dual-voltage’. Dual-voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.
The latest Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltages that automatically adjust to their destination. However, to work with Mexico’s electrical plug types, you may need to adjust the voltage manually by moving an external switch in certain items, such as hair tools.
If your device isn’t dual-voltage, you’re better off leaving it at home. However, most modern devices, such as phones and laptops, already have a dual-voltage capability built in.
If your electronics are not dual-voltage, an international power converter (also called a transformer, voltage adapter, or international voltage converter) could be used. However, voltage converters tend to be large, heavy devices, so they are less practical for travel. If your device isn’t dual-voltage, it requires a converter, so it’s best to leave it at home, particularly if it’s a hair tool.
Because blow dryers and flat irons require a large amount of power, look for products with dual voltage options. Keep in mind that this does not guarantee your hair styling tool will work as well abroad as it does at home, even with the dual voltage setting.
As one reader says, “I wouldn’t recommend using a hair dryer with a travel power converter. It’s very likely you will still blow a fuse, or worse, knock out power for half the hotel! You could also fry your device by doing this.
Do you still have questions about adapting your devices to fit the standard Mexico outlet type? These frequently asked questions will resolve any lingering confusion about the Mexico plug type you’ll see.
Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet?
The Insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing
Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy.
Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies.
🔌 Mexico voltage vs US
If you have devices compatible with Type A and Type B plugs that operate in the 120-volt and 60 Hz frequency range, you shouldn’t need a power adapter. If your items are designed with a different plug type and work at a higher voltage range, you will need a universal adapter, voltage converter, and surge protector to safely use them with a power outlet in Mexico.
🔌 Will my phone charger work in Mexico?
As long as your phone charger is designed with a Type A or B plug (or is connected to a power adapter), you’ll be able to use it with Mexico’s electrical plug types.
🔌 Can I charge my iPhone in Mexico?
Yes, you can charge your iPhone with Mexico outlets as long as it’s designed for use in Canada and the United States. Many newer iPhone models are also dual voltage, so you should be able to use them without a voltage converter.
🔌 Will my laptop charger work in Mexico?
Yes, laptop chargers with Type A or B plugs are compatible with standard Mexico power outlets. Other types of laptop chargers may require an adapter, voltage converter, and/or surge protector to be compatible with Mexico’s electrical plug types.
🔌 Can I charge my camera in Mexico?
Yes, many camera chargers can be plugged directly into Mexico outlets or used with a universal adapter and voltage converter.
🔌 Will my hairdryer work in Mexico?
Your hairdryer will work with Mexican power outlets as long as it’s designed for North American use. If you’re using a hairdryer from another part of the world, confirm where the plug type is A or B and if the frequency range matches the standard voltage in Mexico.
🔌 Will my curling iron work in Mexico?
Yes, curling irons that are compatible with outlets in Canada and the United States will work with electric plugs in Mexico.
🔌 Do I need an adapter in Cancun?
Cancun uses Type A and B Mexican outlets, so you only need an adapter if you use devices made with another kind of plug.
🔌 Does Mexico have different outlets than the US?
Mexico power outlets are the same as the United States. Both use Type A and B plugs, which are also used in Canada.
Quick Tip: View my full Mexico packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list here.
Mexico Travel Guide Planning
🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?
Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Mexico, which you can read here. You can also check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon here.
🚗 Where can I book a bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?
I strongly recommend using GottoGo. You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.
🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?
First and foremost check out all of the amazing Mexico tours Where Sidewalks End has. They are a small local company, and they have some really special experiences.
For everything else I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide.
If you are traveling to Cancun you can use GoCity and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!
If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen, I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.
👩⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?
I recommend Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers 24/7 doctor chat. For Digital Nomads, check out SafetyWing digital nomad insurance.
I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here
✈️ Any flight recommendations?
WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.
📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?
I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices, and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here. I personally use GlocalMe as I can either pop in a physical SIM card or use their local carrier.
Regarding my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling. Rather than swapping out my regular SIM card, I can download the app and buy a virtual SIM card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim. Both have great coverage in multiple countries and are very easy to use.
🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?
The three best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.
🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?
I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack.
Electrical Adapters Mexico: Final Thoughts
With my complete guide to the standard Mexico outlet type and electrical adapters Mexico uses, you can be a confident world traveler! No more worrying about your devices working with a Mexico power outlet or Mexico voltage vs US. Check out my Mexico Travel Guide for even more inspiration and helpful tips as you plan your trip to this beautiful country.
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